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Home / How to Handle and Treat Broken Dental Appliances? 

How to Handle and Treat Broken Dental Appliances? 

Published August 22, 2024 · Dental
emergency dentist in San Jose

In the case where a retainer, denture, or any mouth guard gets damaged, there are some measures that should be taken immediately in this regard, an emergency dentist in San Jose can prove useful to come over and assist as soon as possible. For a start, one has to perform the primary assessment of the occurring damage as a starting point. 

If the crack is small or if the appliance is still working then endeavor to continue using it until you can source a way to have it repaired. Replace it if it is directly sharp or if you feel irritated around the area where the appliance touches. It is advised to call your dentist and get an appointment for the repair session. Meanwhile, store the remnants of the cracked item somewhere to expedite your dental session in case they are needed.

What Measures Can Be Taken to Deal with Discomfort or Issues Results from a Broken Appliance?

In case the dental appliance is damaged and is painful, try to endure and wait for a dental appointment by using these remedies. If you have retainers or dentures, you can cover the sharp parts that might rub your gums or cheek with dental wax. 

Dispensing painkillers if you feel any sort of pain, you can always pop into the chemist to get some over-the-counter medications. If you currently have a damaged mouth guard or sports guard, do not participate in activities that could lead to further damage or aggravation of the situation.

It is also very vital to clean one’s mouth properly to avoid complications that might be caused by the damaged Orthodontic appliance.

What Measures Must be Taken to Avoid Reoccurrence of Such Breakages in the Future?

In order to avoid the occurrence of future breakages, there is a need to always ensure that proper care and maintenance of your dental appliances is observed. Remember to always adhere to the instructions in cleaning and caring for your dental braces as recommended by your dentist or orthodontist. 

This is again done gently with a softheaded toothbrush and mild soap, avoiding abrasive stuff and the case in which the appliance is stored. It is also recommended to have check-ups done more frequently since your dentist will be able to determine the state of the appliances and solve the problem if it has not reached a critical point. Using the appliances appropriately and with care can also go a long way in avoiding any kind of damage.

In what ways can a dentist assist in the process of repairing a fractured dental appliance?

Contacting a dentist or orthodontist can assist with repairing the broken dental appliance if their professional services are sought. They will then evaluate the severity of the damages and evaluate whether repairs can be done or if the whole unit has to be replaced. 

He or she can also advise you on how best you can avoid such problems in the future as well as ensure that the appliance has a good fit after repair has been done. However, they can help by directing you where to buy a new one in cases where a particular appliance is not repairable.

Conclusion

An orthodontist or a general dentist can offer repair or any necessary fix if the owner contacts the professional for the job. Then, they shall establish the level of the damages and then advise on whether the damages can be repaired or the whole unit needs to be changed. 

He or she can also advise on how you can ensure that you do not encounter such issues in the future, and also dictate the proper fitting of the appliance after repair. They will also help you to obtain a new appliance in cases where a certain appliance cannot be repaired.

Further reading

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Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional.